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Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Toddler Trundle Bed Tutorial

Today I'm going to show you how I constructed the toddler trundle bed that I created for the SYTYC audition.

First, I measured the space under my queen bed to see how much space I had to work with. It ended up being approximately 24" x 44" if I wanted to clear my nightstand. The height could be a maximum of 6" tall. I have included quite a few pictures to show you the process step by step. Please pardon the messy garage.
I used 1 x 4's to make the frame. Mark the 1 x 4 at 24" and cut. Repeat so you end up with two pieces of this size.

Then measure to 43" and cut. Repeat so you have two pieces of this size.

I used glue to give it a stronger bond before I used the staple gun.

Staple wood pieces together to make the frame.

Now you need to cut four 45 degree triangles for the corners. This allows for the inside frame to have support and will be where we install the casters.

I used glue again and then stapled it into the corners.

Attach 4 small casters in each corner.

Here is what we have so far. Now we are going to move on to the inner frame that will support the foam mattress.

I used 1 x 2's for the inner frame. You will make this frame slightly smaller. Measure your inside dimensions of your 1 x 4 frame and take a half inch off the length and width. Measure your 1 x 2 and cut the 4 pieces out.

Glue and staple frame together.

Now you are ready to attach the jute onto the frame. Measure out your frame and decide how many pieces of jute you think you'll need. I ended up using 4 pieces running the length of the frame and 8 pieces running the width. Staple them to the edge of your frame. Space them evenly.

Now you will need to weave the jute through and staple at the edge.

Here is the backside of the frame. This shows you the location of where I put the staples. You will need to put in two extra supports running the width of the frame so that it gives it a little more support. I don't have a picture showing this step, but if you have questions let me know.

Now set in frame to see if it fits.

The next step is to fill and sand the edges. Then you are ready to paint the frame.

Now install the handle on the side. For the mattress I used 3" thick foam. I cut it to size using an electric bread knife. This is the easiest way to cut through foam. It slices it like butter. Place the foam on top of the jute frame. The bed is essentially complete. Sheets will need to be made to fit since it is an unusual size. I found instructions here to make your own fitted sheets. Also, you might want to consider making a waterproof mattress cover as well since it is a toddler bed. To complete the project I made the comforter and pillow case.